Review

With guys like Dent May, it's pretty evident what their musical goals are and who their influences are. Reminiscent of the brand of pop that was made prevalent in the 60s by Wilson and McCartney, Warm Blanket is an encapsulation of May's trials and tribulations regarding life, love and pursuit of happiness. But revivalism does not a great album make, and Dent May suffers from the same syndrome he has on his other efforts: a lack of adventure. These songs are fairly catchy, carefully sculpted pieces of bedroom pop, but it becomes clear by the middle of the record that Dent May isn't working with much here, and the album suffers for it.

Granted, there is a fair amount to draw on with Warm Blanket. "Let Them Talk" is the best example of the talent displayed here, a classic ballad featuring warm synths and rousing chorus; it definitely fulfills the summertime vibe that May is aiming at on this record. "Born Too Late" has the same strengths, the groove and melody completely complementing his carefree lyrics. However, this style becomes monotonous after May repeats the song structure and instrumentals throughout the album. "Corner Piece", "Do I Cross Your Mind?", and "It Takes A Long Time" all drone on after creating the same atmosphere that May retreads over and over. It's not that this sort of approach is inherently bad, the tracks are still enjoyable in a vacuum, but the lack of variety really brings this project down. Hopefully Dent May improves his creativity and expands his vision, as he still has talent to give.

never got around to hearing this, but i got a chance to see / meet dent last summer and he was a really sweet guy. the set was alot of fun too (he's pretty hit & miss overall, but when he's good [ie: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eX5VRnbuaRI] he's G0U000D). the venue was around a lake and unfortunately some random assholes decided to throw cups of mustard on stage and it got on the bassist and dent a little bit. fuck them.